Service

Service perhaps does not first come to mind when Christians think of Spiritual Disciplines, but it is perhaps one of the most profound of all the Disciplines. Service moves us from beyond ourselves in to a relationship with others. Service to others is a the most basic level the life that we are called to live as followers of Christ. What could be more spiritual than that?

Here are some guidelines for the practice service as a discipline. ( From the Waters Edge Blog)

1) Begin with a right orientation before God. Examine your heart and ask yourself if you are doing it to please God or to please people? Whatever you do, do it in the name of Jesus.

2) Whenever possible do your service in relative secrecy. Do not use deception to conceal your service, and don't be bothered if someone finds out.

3) Pay attention to your desires for recognition, appreciation, and admiration. Humility is about taking your mind off yourself and focusing on God. Meditate on Jesus words in Matthew 6:1-4.

4) Keep yourself open to serve anyone who you meet. Don't force yourself on someone, but don't refuse anyone any good deed.
5) Identify with people of low position. Look at people through God's eyes as someone who is in need just like you. Dallas Willard encourages us to see ourselves as "a particularly lively piece of clay who, as (a) servant of God, happens to be here and now with the ability to do this good and needful thing for that other bit of clay there."